Rudolph to have surgery Tuesday

In an effort to get back on the field as soon as possible, Kyle Rudolph is schedule to have surgery Tuesday.

Minnesota Vikings tight end Kyle Rudolph is scheduled to have surgery on Tuesday on a sports hernia that is expected to keep him out of action for about six weeks.

Rudolph is flying to Philadelphia on Tuesday morning to have Dr. William Meyers perform the surgery. The Vikings want to address the injury as soon as possible in hopes of getting him back for the second half of the season.

He was one of four starters who left the game, including quarterback Matt Cassel, right guard Brandon Fusco and linebacker Chad Greenway. Cassel broke bones in his left foot, Fusco hurt a chest muscle and Greenway aggravated a rib injury. Nickel cornerback Josh Robinson also departed with a right hamstring injury.

Rudolph aggravated an abdominal injury that had been bothering him since early in the preseason. He signed a five-year contract extension in July and was poised for a breakout season under new offensive coordinator Norv Turner.

"I've always tried to demonstrate that these times can define you as a person. This latest setback will be no different," Rudolph tweeted. "I will prove that my determination and dedication to this team, city, and most importantly, our fans, will carry me back to where I belong."